Building Algebra One Giant Step at a Time: Toward a Reverse-Scaffolding Pedagogical Approach for Fostering Subjective Transparency Through Engineering Levels of Interaction With a Technological Learning Environment

摘要: The project brings together and studies the intersection of three ‘big’ ideas from educational research practice. Firstly, this is built on constructivist assumption that meaningful learning occurs when students interact with materials occasion problem solving reflection. Secondly, elaborates theoretical construct transparency by tracking its subjective development. Finally, reexamines notion scaffolding – socio-cultural idea novices receive expert intervention in form supports until mastery achieved specifically enables an authentic discovery- based experience. This work within context early algebra. story algebra schools often told as challenge progressing arithmetic to A main character “=” sign or, rather, students’ evolving meanings for (Herscovics & Linchevski, 1996). balance metaphor undoubtedly most common visualization algebraic propositions. Still, persistent difficulty transitioning suggests may not be ideal method building a relational understanding equations (Jones, Inglis, Gilmore, Evans, 2013). Therefore, study investigates alternative approach. Using technological-enabled activity, Giant Steps Algebra, models realistic narratives. As they build virtual model situation, discover technical principles assuring model’s fidelity situation. These construction heuristics, are precisely conceptual foundations algebra, activity’s situated intermediary objectives (SILOs). To enable gradual development Steps, at each interaction level, student discovers SILO, then technology takes over automatizing thus freeing further discovery. activity architecture called reverse scaffolding, because tools relieve learners performing what know do, opposed do do. In quasi-experimental evaluation (Grades 4 9; n=40), reverse-scaffolding outperformed baseline students, whom features were pre-automatized upfront, measures SILOs. I conclude discovery-based activities advantageous, technological can level transparency.